Done Deal: Crystal Palace Sign Off on Permanent Midfielder Deal as Goodbye Message Sent

Crystal Palace have finalized the permanent departure of midfielder Naouirou Ahamada to Ligue 1 side AJ Auxerre, marking the end of his three-year stint at Selhurst Park. The 23-year-old French midfielder, who joined from VfB Stuttgart in January 2023, has made 31 senior appearances for the Eagles, including 28 in the Premier League.[3]

Ahamada debuted as a substitute for Cheick Doucouré in a match against Manchester United in February 2023. After spending last season on loan at Rennes, he has now returned to France on a permanent basis. Crystal Palace issued a heartfelt goodbye message: "Everyone at Crystal Palace wishes Naouirou the best of luck with the next chapter of his career."[3]

This outgoing move comes amid a busy January 2026 transfer window for Oliver Glasner's side, who are pushing for European glory in the Conference League and Premier League European spots. Palace have already splashed £35m on a club-record signing of winger Brennan Johnson from Tottenham Hotspur, with the Wales international joining on a four-year deal to bolster their squad amid injuries and a packed schedule.[1][5]

Hindolo Mustapha has also returned from loan at Nurnberg, but no other sales are confirmed yet, leaving Palace's net spend at -£35m.[1] Transfer rumors swirl around potential ins like Juma Bah, Oumar Solet, Nathan Ake, and Jorgen Strand Larsen, while outs could include Marc Guehi (linked to Manchester City, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid), Jean-Philippe Mateta (AC Milan), and Daniel Munoz (PSG).[1][2]

Glasner, whose contract expires this season, confirmed discussions for an extension during a fixture break.[5] The window remains open until February 2, 7pm GMT, with Palace aiming to strengthen further.[1]

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